EP4652128A1

EP4652128A1 - Collapsible reels

Info

Publication number: EP4652128A1
Application number: EP24705874.6A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Kyle Marchek
Original assignee: AFL Telecommunications LLC
Current assignee: AFL Telecommunications LLC
Priority date: 2023-01-20
Filing date: 2024-01-11
Publication date: 2025-11-26
Also published as: WO2024155504A1; MX2025008346A

Abstract

COLLAPSIBLE REELS A collapsible reel (10) includes a first flange (20) and a second flange (20). Each of the first flange and the second flange define a plurality of channels (28) extending between and defined in a first side surface (22) and a second side surface (24). The collapsible reel further includes a plurality of collapsible connectors (40) extending through one of the plurality of channels of the first flange and one of the plurality of channels of the second flange. Each of the plurality of collapsible connectors includes a connector body (41) including a first body portion (42), a second body portion (44), and a hinge (46) connecting the first and second body portions. Each of the plurality of collapsible connectors further includes a first fastener (70) and a second fastener (70) connectable to the connector body to link the collapsible connector with the first flange and the second flange. A collapsible reel may further include a removably positionable core (80).

Description

COLLAPSIBLE REELS

FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to collapsible reels, such as for cables such as optical fiber cables.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Reels are generally utilized for the transport and deployment of various products such as cables. In particular, electrical and optical fiber cables are frequently transported and deployed via reels. Typically, such cables are manufactured and stored on reels for transport to a customer, and the customer disposes of or returns the reel after deployment of the cable.

[0003] Many cable customers are now desiring environmentally friendly reels that can be recycled and/or reused. Currently known reels do not meet that requirement. For example, currently known two and/or three flange reels are built with either paper core tubes or ABS interlocking plastic core tubes that are secured to the flanges with steel bolts. Currently known three flange reels are built with only paper core tubes and secured to the flanges with steel bolts.

[0004] Several problems exist with these types of currently known reels. For example, the reel materials are not easily disassembled or easily collapsible for ease of returning or recycling. In the case of optical fiber cables, active fiber optic data centers don’t allow paper products in the data center. Finally, non-disassembled reels requires considerable amounts of storage space.

[0005] Accordingly, improved reels which meet the above requirements and address the above issues are desired and would be advantageous.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0006] Aspects and advantages of the invention in accordance with the present disclosure will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the technology.

[0007] In accordance with one embodiment, a collapsible reel is provided. The collapsible reel includes a first flange and a second flange, each of the first flange and the second flange comprising a first side surface, a second side surface, and an edge surface extending between the first side surface and the second side surface. Each of the first flange and the second flange define a plurality of channels, each of the plurality of channels extending between and defined in the first side surface and the second side surface. The collapsible reel further includes a plurality' of collapsible connectors, each of the plurality of collapsible connectors extending through one of the plurality of channels of the first flange and one of the plurality’ of channels of the second flange. Each of the plurality of collapsible connectors includes a connector body, the connector body including a first body portion, a second body portion, and a hinge connecting the first and second body portions. Each of the plurality' of collapsible connectors further includes a first fastener and a second fastener, the first fastener and second fastener connectable to the connector body to link the collapsible connector yvith the first flange and the second flange.

[0008] In accordance with another embodiment, a collapsible reel is provided. The collapsible reel includes a first flange and a second flange spaced apart from each other along a longitudinal axis, each of the first flange and the second flange comprising a first side surface, a second side surface, and an edge surface extending between the first side surface and the second side surface. Each of the first flange and the second flange define a plurality of channels, each of the plurality of channels extending between and defined in the first side surface and the second side surface. The collapsible reel further includes a plurality of collapsible connectors, each of the plurality of collapsible connectors extending through one of the plurality of channels of the first flange and one of the plurality of channels of the second flange and extending between the first flange and the second flange. Each of the plurality of collapsible connectors includes a connector body, the connector body including a first body portion, a second body portion, and a hinge connecting the first and second body portions. Each of the plurality of collapsible connectors further includes a first fastener and a second fastener, the first fastener and second fastener connectable to the connector body to link the collapsible connector with the first flange and the second flange. The collapsible reel further includes a core, the core removably positioned betyveen the first flange and the second flange and around the plurality' of collapsible connectors. [0009] In accordance with another embodiment, a method for disassembling a reel is provided. The method includes removing a core from between a first flange and a second flange, wherein the first flange and the second flange are spaced apart along a longitudinal axis by the core and linked by a plurality of collapsible connectors. The method further includes collapsing the first flange and the second flange towards each other, wherein the first flange and the second flange remain linked by the plurality of collapsible connectors.

[0010] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the technology and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the technology.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode of making and using the present systems and methods, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures, in which:

[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an assembled reel in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0013] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a reel with a core removed in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0014] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a reel being collapsed after removal of a core in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 4 is a side view of a reel in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG. 5 is a top view of a connector in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0017] FIG. 6 is a top view of a connector in accordance with other embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 7 is a top view of a connector in accordance with still other embodiments of the present disclosure; [0019] FIG. 8 is a top view of a connector in accordance with yet other embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0020] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a portion of a second side surface of a flange in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0021] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a connector connected to the flange of FIG. 9;

[0022] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a second side surface of a flange in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0023] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a connector connected to the flange of FIG. 11;

[0024] FIG. 13 is a core in a disassembled position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0025] FIG. 14 is a core in an assembled position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0026] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a fastener in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the present invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. The word ■‘exemplary” is used herein to mean ’‘serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. Moreover, each example is provided by way of explanation, rather than limitation of, the technology. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and variations can be made in the present technology without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed technology. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present disclosure covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. The detailed description uses numerical and letter designations to refer to features in the drawings. Like or similar designations in the drawings and description have been used to refer to like or similar parts of the invention.

[0028] As used herein, the terms “first”. “second”, and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components. The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The terms “coupled,” “fixed.” “attached to,” and the like refer to both direct coupling, fixing, or attaching, as well as indirect coupling, fixing, or attaching through one or more intermediate components or features, unless otherwise specified herein. As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” “has.” “having” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of features is not necessarily limited only to those features but may include other features not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refers to an inclusive- or and not to an exclusive- or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

[0029] Terms of approximation, such as “about,” “generally,” “approximately,” or “substantially,” include values within ten percent greater or less than the stated value. When used in the context of an angle or direction, such terms include within ten degrees greater or less than the stated angle or direction. For example, “generally vertical” includes directions within ten degrees of vertical in any direction, e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise.

[0030] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems are described below with regard to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any feature(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature of any or all the claims.

[0031] In general, the present disclosure is directed to improved reels, such as for the transport and deployment of cable. In particular, reels in accordance with the present disclosure are advantageously collapsible for easy transport and recyclability. Customers receiving such reels can advantageously collapse such reels for efficient storage, transport back to the manufacturer, or other suitable uses. Further, in exemplary embodiments, all components of reels in accordance with the present disclosure are advantageous formed from plastics, thus further facilitating the transport and recyclability thereof while also allowing for the use of such reels in active fiber optic data centers and other such environments. Accordingly, no metal components (such as metal bolts) or paper components (such as paper cores) may be utilized in such reel structures.

[0032] Referring now to the drawings. FIGS. 1 through 4 illustrate components of collapsible reels 10 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. A reel 10 in accordance with the present disclosure may advantageously be utilized to transport and deploy cables, such as electrical or fiber optic cables. As illustrated, a reel 10 may include a plurality of flanges, such as first and second flanges 20. In some embodiments, a third flange 20 and/or further additional flanges may be included in reel 10. When in an assembled, non-collapsed position, flanges 20 may be spaced apart from each other, such as along a longitudinal axis 12 of the reel 10.

[0033] Each flange 20 may include a first side surface 22 (which may for example be an outside surface facing away from an associated core), a second side surface 24 (which may for example be an inside surface facing an associate core), and an edge surface 26 extending between the first side surface 22 and the second side surface 24. First and second side surfaces 22, 24 may be opposing surfaces which are spaced apart from each other by the associated edge surface 26, and edge surface 26 may define a perimeter of a flange 20 between the opposing surfaces 22, 24.

[0034] In exemplary embodiments, flanges 20 may be cylindrical, with first and second surfaces 22, 24 being circular.

[0035] Referring now also to Figs. 9 through 12, each flange 20 may further define a plurality of channels 28. The channels 28 may each extend through a flange 20, such as through and betw een, and thus defined in, the first and second side surfaces 22, 24 of the flange 20. Thus, each channel 28 may be accessible through both the first and second side surfaces 22, 24. Notable, channels 28 may be continuous channels in embodiments wherein flanges 20 are solid between surfaces 22, 24, or may be discontinuous channels in embodiments wherein flanges 20 are partially or fully hollow between surfaces 22, 24.

[0036] In exemplary embodiments, channels 28 may be arranged in an annular array about the longitudinal axis 12 of the reel 10. Further, channels 28 may be spaced from the edge surface 26, and for example be between the edge surface 26 and the longitudinal axis 12.

[0037] Referring briefly to FIGS. 9 and 10, in some embodiments a flange 20 may include one or more, such as a plurality, of shoulders 30. Each shoulder 30 may be positioned proximate a channel 28 and extend from a second side surface 24 of a flange 20.

[0038] Referring briefly to FIGS. 11 and 12, in some embodiments a flange 20 may include one or more, such as a plurality, of slots 32. Each slot 32 may be positioned proximate a channel 28 and be defined in a second side surface 24 of a flange 20. In exemplary embodiments, a pair of slots 32 may be positioned proximate a channel 28 and be defined in a second side surface 24 of a flange 20.

[0039] Referring now generally to FIGS. 2 through 12, a reel 10 in accordance with the present disclosure further includes a plurality of collapsible connectors 40. Each of the plurality of collapsible connectors 40 may extend through a channel 28 in tw o of the flanges 20 in order to link the flanges 20 together. For example, each connector 40 may extend through a channel 28 in the first flange 20 and may further extend through a channel 28 in the second flange 20, and may thus extend betw een and link together the flanges 20. Each collapsible connector 40 may further be collapsible so as to facilitate collapsing of the reel 10 generally as discussed herein. [0040] In exemplary embodiments, collapsible connectors 40 may, when the reel is in an assembled, non-collapsed position, be arranged in an annular array about the longitudinal axis 12 of the reel 10.

[0041] As shown, each collapsible connector 40 may include a connector body 41. Connector body 41 may include a first body portion 42 and a second body portion 44. First and second body portions 42, 44 may be disposed between flanges 20, and may for example be in contact with second side surface 24.

[0042] Each collapsible connector 40 may further include a hinge 46 connecting the first and second body portions 42, 44. Hinge 46 may, for example, allow first and second body portions 42. 44 to rotate relative to each other about the hinge 46 in at least one. and in exemplary embodiments two, directions. In some embodiments, hinge 46 may simply be a defined fold in the body 41 which segments the body into first and second body portions 42, 44, while in other embodiments hinge 46 may be a separate component connecting the first and second body portions 42, 44 together. [0043] In exemplary embodiments, each collapsible connector 40 may further include a first arm 52 and a second arm 54. First arm 52 may extend from the first body portion 42, and second arm 54 may extend from the second body portion 44. First arm 52 may extend through a channel 28 in the first flange 20, while second arm 54 may extend through a channel 28 in the second flange 20. For example, in exemplary embodiments, arms 52. 54 extend through channels 28 and protrude from channels 28 at first side surfaces 22 of the flanges 20, while body portions 42, 44 remain between flanges 20.

[0044] In some embodiments, first arm 52 may be directly connected to first body portion 42 and second arm 54 may be directly connected to second body portion 44. Alternatively, hinges may connect the arms to the body portions. For example, a first auxiliary hinge 56 may connect first arm 52 to first body portion 42, and a second auxiliary hinge 58 may connect second arm 54 to second body portion 44. Auxiliary hinges 56, 58 may, for example, allow first and second arms 52, 54 to rotate relative to first and second body portions 42. 44. respectively, about the hinge 56. 58 in at least one, and in exemplary embodiments two, directions. In some embodiments, hinges 56, 58 may simply be defined folds in the body 41 which segment the body into arms and body portions, respectively, while in other embodiments hinges 56, 58 may be separate component connecting the first and second arms 52, 54 with first and second body portions 42. 44.

[0045] A length LI and a width W1 may be defined for the first body portion 42. A length L2 and a width W2 may be defined for the second body portion 44. A length L3 and a width W3 may be defined for the first arm 52. A length L4 and a width W4 may be defined for the second arm 54.

[0046] In exemplary embodiments, widths W1 and W2 are greater than widths W3 and W4. As such, shoulders 62 are defined between first arm 52 and first body portion 42, such as at hinge 56, and shoulders 64 are defined between second arm 54 and second body portion 44, such as at hinge 58.

[0047] In exemplary embodiments, maximum widths W1 and W2 are approximately equal.

[0048] In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 7, widths W1 and W2 are generally constant along lengths LI and L2. In other embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 8. widths W1 and W2 taper along portions of lengths LI, L2, such as towards the hinge 46. In some embodiments, a portion of width W1 and width W2 is constant while another portion tapers, while in other embodiments widths W1 and W2 taper along the entire lengths LI, L2 thereof.

[0049] Referring now to FIGS. 2, 4, 10, and 12, collapsible connectors 40 in accordance with the present disclosure further include first and second fasteners 70. First and second fasteners 70 are connectable to the connector body 41 to link the collapsible connector 40 with the first flange 20 and the second flange 20. For example, when first and second fasteners 70 are connected to the connector body 41, the first flange 20, second flange 20. and collapsible connector 40 are linked together, with the collapsible connector 40 extending between the first flange 20 and second flange 20.

[0050] In exemplary embodiments, the first fastener 70 is connectable, or connected, to the first arm 52. Further, in exemplary embodiments, the second fastener 70 is connectable, or connected, to the second arm 54. For example, as discussed, first and second arms 52, 54 may extend through channels 28 and protrude from channels 28 at first side surfaces 22 of the flanges 20, while body portions 42, 44 remain between flanges 20. First fastener 70 may be connectable, or connected, to the first arm 52, such as proximate and/or in contact with the first side surface 22 of the first flange 20. Second fastener 70 may be connectable, or connected, to the second arm 54, such as proximate and/or in contact with the first side surface 22 of the second flange 20. Such connections may link the collapsible connector 40 with the first and second flanges 20.

[0051] In exemplary embodiments the first and second arms 52, 54 of the connectors 40 are ribbed, and thus include a plurality of ribs 72. Such ribs 72 may interact with the fasteners 70 to connect, such as permanently connect, the fasteners to the arms 52, 54 and connectors 40 generally. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 15, first and second fasteners 70 may include mating tabs 74 which interact with ribs 72 to cause such connections. For example, in exemplary embodiments, the first and second fasteners 70 are cable tie buttons, and the ribs 72 and mating tabs 74 act as cable tie components to cause such connections.

[0052] Referring again to FIGS. 9 and 10, in some embodiments, connectors 40, such connector bodies 41, may contact second side surfaces 24 when connectors 40 are linked to flanges 20. For example, in some embodiments, shoulders 62, 64, or alternatively body portions 42, 44 or hinges 56, 58, may contact the second side surface 24 when connectors 40 are linked to flanges 20. In some embodiments, shoulders 62. 64. or alternatively body portions 42, 44 or hinges 56, 58 may be seated in or against shoulders 30 when connectors 40 are linked to flanges 20, as shown.

[0053] Referring again to FIGS. 11 and 12, in some embodiments, connector bodies 41 may include tabs 68. Tabs 68 may extend from the shoulders 62, 64, or alternatively body portions 42, 44 or hinges 56, 58. Tabs 68 may be disposed in slots 32 when connectors are linked to flanges 20.

[0054] Hinge 46 and hinges 56, 58 may advantageously facilitate the collapsibility of reels 10 in accordance with the present disclosure. For example, FIG. 2 illustrates a reel 10 in a non-collapsed position, while FIG. 3 illustrated a reel 10 being collapsed. Notably, flanges 20 are spaced apart from each other along longitudinal axis 12 when in a fully assembled and/or non-collapsed position. When being collapsed, flanges 20 may be moved towards each other along the longitudinal axis 12. Hinge 46 and hinges 56, 58 may advantageously facilitate such collapsibility of reels 10 by allowing rotation of body portions 42, 44 and arms 52, 54 relative to each other such that the flanges 20 are movable along the longitudinal axis 12.

[0055] Referring now to FIGS. 1, 13, and 14, in exemplary embodiments, a reel 10 in accordance with the present disclosure may further include a core 80. Core may be removably positionable between the first flange 20 and the second flange 20 (or between any plurality of spaced apart flanges 20) and around the plurality of collapsible connectors 40. Core 80 may, for example, be positioned annularly about the longitudinal axis 12. [0056] Core 80 may advantageously provide stability to the reel 10 when the reel is in an assembled and/or non-collapsed position. Specifically, a fully assembled reel 10 may include a core 80, and cables or other materials may be wrapped around the core 80 between the flanges 20 when the reel 10 is in use.

[0057] In exemplary embodiments as illustrated, core 80 may include a body 82 which extends between a first end 84 and a second end 86. Body may further include one or more releasable connectors. When assembled, as illustrated for example in FIGS. 1 and 14, a core 80 may be positioned annularly about the longitudinal axis 12, such as in a generally cylindrical shape, such that first end 84 and second end 86 are proximate and/or in contact with each other. When disassembled, as illustrated for example in FIG. 13, the core 80 may be removed from between the flanges 20.

Further, when disassembled, the core 80 may have a generally planar shape, such that the first end 84 and second end 86 are distal from each other (relative to when in the assembled position). Releasable connectors may releasably connect the first end 84 and second end 86 together in the assembled position, and allow for disassembly when collapsing the reel 10. In exemplary embodiments, releasable connectors are provided on and/or part of the first end 84 and/or second end 86. For example, in some embodiments, releasable connectors include mating finger 88 and slots 89, with fingers 88 extending from one or both of first end 84 and/or second end 86 being removably insertable into slots 89 defined in the other of first end 84 and/or second end 86.

[0058] In exemplary embodiments, the various reel 10 components discussed herein are formed from plastics. Suitable plastics include, for example, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (“ABS”), nylon, polypropylene, and other suitable thermoplastics. In some embodiments, all reel 10 components may be formed from plastics such as those discussed above. In some embodiments, all reel 10 components are formed from the same plastic, while in other embodiments, one or more reel 10 components may be formed from different plastics than one or more other reel 10 components. Such reel 10 components include flanges 20, collapsible connectors 40 (including connector bodies 41 and fasteners 70), and core 80. In exemplary embodiments, no components of the reel 10 are formed from metals or paper. Accordingly, in exemplary embodiments, the reel 10 does not include metals or paper and consists of plastic.

[0059] The present disclosure is further directed to methods for disassembling reels 10. A method includes, for example, removing a core 80 from between a first flange 20 and a second flange 20. As discussed, in exemplary embodiments when assembled, the first flange 20 and the second flange 20 are spaced apart along a longitudinal axis 12 by the core 80 and linked by a plurality of collapsible connectors 40.

[0060] Removal of the core 80 may include releasing releasable connectors of the core 80, as discussed herein.

[0061] Methods in accordance with the present disclosure may further include collapsing the first flange 20 and the second flange 20 towards each other, such as along the longitudinal axis 12. When being collapsed, the first flange 20 and the second flange 20 may remain linked by the plurality of collapsible connectors 40. [0062] In exemplary embodiments, such collapsing may include rotation of various connector 40 components relative to one another about hinges 46, 56, and/or 58 as discussed herein.

[0063] The present disclosure is further directed to methods for assembling reels 10. A method includes moving first flange 20 and second flange 20 away from each other, such as along the longitudinal axis 12. During such movement, the first flange 20 and the second flange 20 may be linked by the plurality of collapsible connectors 40.

[0064] In exemplary embodiments, such movement may include rotation of various connector 40 components relative to one another about hinges 46, 56, and/or 58 as discussed herein.

[0065] Methods in accordance with the present disclosure may further include assembling a core 80 between first flange 20 and second flange 20. Such core 80 may be wrapped around connectors 40 and may thus be positioned annularly about longitudinal axis 12. Core 80 may further be connected in the annular position by connection of releasable connectors, as discussed herein.

[0066] Further aspects of the invention are provided by one or more of the following embodiments: [0067] A collapsible reel including a first flange and a second flange, each of the first flange and the second flange comprising a first side surface, a second side surface, and an edge surface extending between the first side surface and the second side surface. Each of the first flange and the second flange define a plurality of channels, each of the plurality of channels extending between and defined in the first side surface and the second side surface. The collapsible reel further includes a plurality of collapsible connectors, each of the plurality of collapsible connectors extending through one of the plurality of channels of the first flange and one of the plurality of channels of the second flange. Each of the plurality of collapsible connectors includes a connector body, the connector body including a first body portion, a second body portion, and a hinge connecting the first and second body portions. Each of the plurality of collapsible connectors further includes a first fastener and a second fastener, the first fastener and second fastener connectable to the connector body to link the collapsible connector with the first flange and the second flange.

[0068] A collapsible reel including a first flange and a second flange spaced apart from each other along a longitudinal axis, each of the first flange and the second flange comprising a first side surface, a second side surface, and an edge surface extending between the first side surface and the second side surface. Each of the first flange and the second flange define a plurality of channels, each of the plurality of channels extending between and defined in the first side surface and the second side surface. The collapsible reel further includes a plurality of collapsible connectors, each of the plurality of collapsible connectors extending through one of the plurality of channels of the first flange and one of the plurality of channels of the second flange and extending between the first flange and the second flange. Each of the plurality of collapsible connectors includes a connector body, the connector body including a first body portion, a second body portion, and a hinge connecting the first and second body portions. Each of the plurality of collapsible connectors further includes a first fastener and a second fastener, the first fastener and second fastener connectable to the connector body to link the collapsible connector with the first flange and the second flange. The collapsible reel further includes a core, the core removably positioned between the first flange and the second flange and around the plurality of collapsible connectors.

[0069] A method for disassembling a reel, including removing a core from between a first flange and a second flange, wherein the first flange and the second flange are spaced apart along a longitudinal axis by the core and linked by a plurality of collapsible connectors. The method further includes collapsing the first flange and the second flange towards each other, wherein the first flange and the second flange remain linked by the plurality of collapsible connectors.

[0070] A method for assembling a reel, including moving first flange and second flange apart along a longitudinal axis. The first flange and second flange are linked by a plurality of collapsible connectors. The method further includes assembling a core between the first flange and second flange.

[0071 ] A reel or method of one or more embodiments as shown and described herein, wherein the first flange, second flange, plurality of collapsible connectors, and/or core are each formed from a plastic.

[0072] A reel or method of one or more embodiments as shown and described herein, wherein the connector body of each of the plurality of collapsible connectors comprises a first arm extending from the first body portion and a second arm extending from the second body portion, and wherein the first fastener is connectable to the first arm and the second fastener is connectable to the second arm.

[0073] A reel or method of one or more embodiments as shown and described herein, wherein the connector body further comprises a first auxiliary hinge connecting the first arm and first body portion and a second auxiliary hinge connecting the second arm and second body portion.

[0074] A reel or method of one or more embodiments as shown and described herein, wherein the first arm and the second arm are ribbed.

[0075] A reel or method of one or more embodiments as shown and described herein, wherein the first fastener and the second fastener are cable tie buttons.

[0076] A reel or method of one or more embodiments as shown and described herein, wherein widths of the first body portion and the second body portion are greater than widths of the first arm and the second arm. [0077] A reel or method of one or more embodiments as shown and described herein, wherein widths of the first body portion and the second body portion are generally constant along lengths of the first body portion and the second body portion. [0078] A reel or method of one or more embodiments as shown and described herein, wherein widths of the first body portion and the second body portion taper along portions of lengths of the first body portion and the second body portion towards the hinge.

[0079] A reel or method of one or more embodiments as shown and described herein, further comprising a core, the core removably positionable between the first flange and the second flange and around the plurality of collapsible connectors.

[0080] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A collapsible reel, comprising: a first flange and a second flange, each of the first flange and the second flange comprising a first side surface, a second side surface, and an edge surface extending between the first side surface and the second side surface, each of the first flange and the second flange defining a plurality of channels, each of the plurality' of channels extending between and defined in the first side surface and the second side surface; and a plurality of collapsible connectors, each of the plurality of collapsible connectors extending through one of the plurality of channels of the first flange and one of the plurality of channels of the second flange, each of the plurality of collapsible connectors comprising: a connector body, the connector body comprising a first body portion, a second body portion, and a hinge connecting the first and second body portions; and a first fastener and a second fastener, the first fastener and second fastener connectable to the connector body to link the collapsible connector with the first flange and the second flange.

2. The collapsible reel of claim 1, wherein the first flange, second flange, and plurality of collapsible connectors are each formed from a plastic.

3. The collapsible reel of claim 1. wherein the connector body of each of the plurality of collapsible connectors comprises a first arm extending from the first body portion and a second arm extending from the second body portion, and wherein the first fastener is connectable to the first arm and the second fastener is connectable to the second arm.

4. The collapsible reel of claim 3. wherein the connector body further comprises a first auxiliary hinge connecting the first arm and first body portion and a second auxiliary' hinge connecting the second arm and second body portion.

5. The collapsible reel of claim 3. wherein the first arm and the second arm are ribbed.

6. The collapsible reel of claim 5, wherein the first fastener and the second fastener are cable tie buttons.

7. The collapsible reel of claim 3, wherein widths of the first body portion and the second body portion are greater than widths of the first arm and the second arm.

8. The collapsible reel of claim 1. wherein widths of the first body portion and the second body portion are generally constant along lengths of the first body portion and the second body portion.

9. The collapsible reel of claim 1. wherein widths of the first body portion and the second body portion taper along portions of lengths of the first body portion and the second body portion towards the hinge.

10. The collapsible reel of claim 1, further comprising a core, the core removably positionable between the first flange and the second flange and around the plurality of collapsible connectors.

11. The collapsible reel of claim 1, wherein the core is formed from a plastic.

12. A collapsible reel, comprising: a first flange and a second flange spaced apart from each other along a longitudinal axis, each of the first flange and the second flange comprising a first side surface, a second side surface, and an edge surface extending between the first side surface and the second side surface, each of the first flange and the second flange defining a plurality' of channels, each of the plurality' of channels extending between and defined in the first side surface and the second side surface: and a plurality’ of collapsible connectors, each of the plurality of collapsible connectors extending through one of the plurality of channels of the first flange and one of the plurality⁷ of channels of the second flange and extending between the first flange and the second flange, each of the plurality of collapsible connectors comprising: a connector body, the connector body comprising a first body portion, a second body portion, and a hinge connecting the first and second body portions; and a first fastener and a second fastener, the first fastener and second fastener connectable to the connector body to link the collapsible connector with the first flange and the second flange; and a core, the core removably positioned between the first flange and the second flange and around the plurality⁷ of collapsible connectors.

13. The collapsible reel of claim 12, wherein the first flange, second flange, plurality of collapsible connectors, and core are each formed from a plastic.

14. The collapsible reel of claim 12. wherein the connector body of each of the plurality of collapsible connectors comprises a first arm extending from the first body portion and a second arm extending from the second body portion, and wherein the first fastener is connectable to the first arm and the second fastener is connectable to the second arm.

15. The collapsible reel of claim 14, wherein the connector body further comprises a first auxiliary’ hinge connecting the first arm and first body portion and a second auxiliary hinge connecting the second arm and second body portion.

16. The collapsible reel of claim 14, wherein the first arm and the second arm are ribbed.

17. The collapsible reel of claim 16, wherein the first fastener and the second fastener are cable tie buttons.

18. The collapsible reel of claim 14, wherein widths of the first body portion and the second body portion are greater than widths of the first arm and the second arm.

19. A method for disassembling a reel, the method comprising: removing a core from between a first flange and a second flange, wherein the first flange and the second flange are spaced apart along a longitudinal axis by the core and linked by a plurality’ of collapsible connectors; and collapsing the first flange and the second flange towards each other, wherein the first flange and the second flange remain linked by the plurality’ of collapsible connectors.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the first flange, second flange, plurality of collapsible connectors, and core are each formed from a plastic.